Bhutan part 2
Bhutan is beautiful. There’s no other way to say it. It’s a land of deep spirituality, gorgeous vistas, and wonderful people. It’s a country that is also in the midst of change. Next year, 2008, Bhutan celebrates the coronation of its 5th King (who will be only 27 years old at that time). Concurrently, the nation faces its first parliamentary elections. This will usher in the country’s first popularly elected government. It is amazing being here now, talking to people about the transition from monarchy to (limited) democracy.
On the 22nd, S and I moved from Uma Paro to the breathtaking Amankora resort, also in Paro. The next day, we drove over horrific road conditions (the roads are being repaved at the moment) to the country’s capital, Thimphu. There we had lunch with some old family friends (most of whom are involved with one of the two rival political parties) and explored some of the capital’s finer shops before checking into Amankora’s fortress-like Thimphu lodge.
The next morning, we pushed off towards Gangtey, a rolling 6 hour drive away. On the way, we stopped at Dochu Lu, a 3,050m high pass that afforded picture perfect views of the Himalayan mountains. Here, S and I honored tradition by tying some prayer flags before heading off. Before we got to Gangtey, we stopped at the mammoth Wangdiphodrang Dzong, a 17th century fort overlooking the village of Rinchengang.
We arrived in Gangtey mid-afternoon. Amakora stunningly overlooks a valley (and wild-life preserve) dotted with dwarf bamboos. Fortuitously, we were able to catch sight of the black-necked cranes, revered birds in Bhutan, who winter in this picturesque area.
Yesterday, we drove to Punakha valley, a beautiful and historic part of the country. This sub-tropical region was the site of the nation’s first capital. It also still hosts the king’s winter residence. The Amankora lodge here is really pretty. The resort’s restaurant and common areas are built in and around a beautifully restored Bhutanese farmhouse. A courtyard overlooks rice paddies and lush vegetation. The weather is also startlingly different. While I needed a sweater in other areas, here I can comfortably wear a T-shirt and shorts during the day.
Yesterday afternoon, we explored Punakha Dzong, one of the country’s oldest and most beautiful forts. Later today, we will visit Chimi Lhakhang, a famous fertility temple. We’re told that there we can learn what the sex of our (future) first-born will be.
About Aun Koh
Aun has always loved food and travel, passions passed down to him from his parents. This foundation, plus a background in media, pushed him to start Chubby Hubby in 2005. He loves that this site allows him to write about the things he adores--food, style, travel, his wife and his three kids!
Gorgeous. You’re inspiring wanderlust!
Dear Aun, you got here a real eye opener by travelling the country. Perfect colors and settings; got to see it for myself one day!
Kind Regards from Dubai, Chris
Aun these photos are just so beautiful
*sighhhhhsss*
What a plumb job! I am so happy at least one place on the planet is retaining it’s culture in what seems like a very modern way.
Aun! Did you take these photos with your Panasonic or your DSLR ?
Hi CH, these are so brilliant, breath takinging pictures. Did you see royal family? What I hear from my friend at foreign ministry is, the new King, who is educated at Andover, and at Oxford is young and handsome, therefore really popular among young asian girls 🙂
Beautiful photos, although the bridge shots make my palms sweat … 😉
any more shots of the market. i am always fascinated by markets.
Hi all and thanks for the great comments. S and I just got back to Singapore, armed with some (surprisingly) delicious Bhutanese goodies (more next post).
I used my Nikon D200 on this trip. Stupidly, I forgot to pack a wide-angle lens (S looked at me when I told her this and went, “Duh!”)
And, um… I did meet a few members of the Royal Family, cousins, but not the main family members 😉
I love your photos … simply great. I want to visit this country ^_^ Thank you for sharing.
I became very interested in Bhutan after I read an article about Bhutan in the Sunday Times when a student from Bhutan came to SIN for internship. Not long ago, CNA also feature 2 parts series on Bhutan and showed a Singaporean married a lady from Bhutan (I think they met at the hotel catering course) and set up a restaurant at Bhutan. Bhutan’s GDP is dependant on the people’s happiness. Are the people there really happy?…as Amelia posted on 29 November 2007. Can you write more of Bhutan and let us have your photo link? What are your recommendations for me if I could like to go there…to really feel their culture, livelihood, happiness? Thanks
Dear Aun and S – thank you for sharing these exquisite images from Bhutan – they are absolutely beautiful and make me want to visit the country right now…!